February 18, 2025: Pakistan’s captain Mohammad Rizwan provided a fitness update on fast bowler Haris Rauf ahead of the much-anticipated Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand. With just a day remaining before the high-profile clash in Karachi, Rizwan confirmed that Rauf, who had been dealing with a muscle strain, was at his “full rhythm” and fit for the match.
Concerns had risen regarding Rauf’s fitness after he suffered an injury in the first match of the ODI tri-nation series against New Zealand. Rauf had bowled just 6.2 overs before he was forced off the field due to a muscle strain. He did not return to the field and was also absent from Pakistan’s batting innings, raising doubts about his availability for the tournament opener.
However, Rizwan reassured fans by stating that Rauf had reported no discomfort in his latest training sessions. “Haris bowled 80 percent yesterday, and today he is bowling at his full rhythm and told us that he is not feeling any discomfort, so I hope he is fully fit,” Rizwan confirmed, speaking to reporters as quoted by Geo News.
The Champions Trophy marks a significant return of international cricket to Pakistan after three decades. Rizwan urged the nation to enjoy the occasion, emphasizing the importance of the event both for Pakistan and the international cricket community. “A global event has come to Pakistan after 29 years, so I think the whole nation should enjoy this historic occasion,” Rizwan said.
Pakistan enters the tournament as the defending champions, but their recent encounters with New Zealand have not been favorable. New Zealand defeated Pakistan twice in the lead-up to the Champions Trophy. Despite these setbacks, Rizwan remains confident, stating that his team has not yet played to their full potential.
“We may not have played on our abilities, but we all want to win the event for the country and the people,” Rizwan added, underscoring the team’s commitment to defend their title for the nation.